WMU to become tobacco-free

December 6, 2013 | AP Western Michigan University plans to become tobacco-free starting Sept. 1 as part of a broader effort to improve the health of the campus community.

The Kalamazoo school's Board of Trustees approved the measure at its meeting Thursday.

The policy applies to all members of the campus community as well as visitors, vendors, contract employees and others. It includes university-owned property, including regional locations. The exception is that tobacco use will be permitted within enclosed personal vehicles.

Hundreds of other schools in the U.S. have similar policies, including about two dozen colleges and universities in Michigan.